Off-beat family adventures

The 20 destinations below may not be quite mainstream enough to warrant a whole individual section on our website, but they are places where we have fantastic in-country partners and are confident we can arrange a fabulous (if unusual) family holiday.

1. Uzbekistan

This former Soviet republic is famed for its UNESCO-listed Silk Road cities, but dramatic deserts and mountain ranges also have family appeal. Fabulous activities here include staying in a yurt in the Kyzylkum Desert, exploring the narrow backstreets of fabled Samarkand and sampling freshly barbequed lamb skewers in the markets of Khiva. High-speed trains make it easy to get around Uzbekistan despite the distances, and everything is well set up for families.

Chapman Family (with children aged 16, 20 & 22)
Our holiday included Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. The sheer joy of landing in places that were dotted on the Silk Road was somehow romantic (Tashkent, Khiva and Samarkand). Uzbekistan was a mix of Soviet organisation with the old cradle of the Islamic world. There was great interest in our visiting family and lots of interaction and laughter although our Russian and Uzbek were nonexistent. The food was great and varied. The old monuments and the history enchanting. The accommodation was good and the hotel in Bukhara magical. Travelling across Uzbekistan gave a picture of a thriving country much larger than we had expected. This was a great holiday for those wanting some adventure and a chance to venture into Central Asia with its rich history and peoples.

2. The Philippines

This Southeast Asia country is made up of thousands of islands, all unique, that are fun to hop around by local ferry – you’ll be rewarded by an array of landscapes including picture-postcard white-sand beaches, hidden caves, lush rice terraces and thick jungle. Great destinations include El Nido with its soaring karst mountains, out-of-this-world diving and snorkelling, sparkling lagoons and wonderful cave experiences.

Alex, Stubborn Mule Travel
“If you like swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, turquoise waters and idyllic white sand beaches, then the Philippines are THE choice for families. Dive the reefs at Panglao Island, take an outrigger around the Bacuit Archipelago – and who wouldn’t love a ‘starfish island’. I did!”

3. South Korea

For many years, Korea barely had a place on the travel scene, let alone the family travel scene. Then, cliché though it may be, Gangnam Style burst onto our Spotify playlists, ushering in an era of K-Pop and K-Beauty. Suddenly this small peninsula is on the teen-wish-list. The capital Seoul offers a cityscape of futuristic neon-lit sky rises and buzzing shopping malls but with pockets of beautiful traditional architecture, temples and markets. Outside the cities, the country is extremely mountainous, with the spiky mountain peaks of Seoraksan National Park a particular highlight. There’s plenty here for both adults and children, and it combines well with both China and Japan.

Korea in-country Partners
“Find a spectacle of world heritage sites, unique experiences, picturesque nature and urban landscapes. A modernised nation that maintains its traditional culture – come and visit!”

4. Malawi

Combining big-game safaris, water-based fun including kayaking, catamaran sailing, snorkelling, and diving on Lake Malawi, and culture, this landlocked country in southeastern Africa is an interesting choice for parents with teens, with an off-the-beaten-track feel. Its most popular park or reserve is Liwonde, where boat safaris along the River Shire offer sightings of the Big Five and incredible birdlife.

Claire, Stubborn Mule Travel
 ” Freshwater Lake Malawi is the star. I loved swimming in the clear waters and exploring the pretty beaches. Great for snorkeling and kayaking too and a magnet for birds. Ideal for a second-time family visit to Africa.”

5. Bolivia

This undiscovered gem offers a huge variety of landscapes and authentic experiences – without the crowds. Discover the fascinating La Paz Witches Market, wander cobbled streets in colonial towns, climb to dizzy heights in the snow-capped Andes and head underground in the Potosi silver mines. Explore the tropical Amazon jungle and be wowed by exploding geysers and multi-coloured lagoons in the vast Uyuni Salt Flats. Bolivia combines well with a trip to Peru, with easy access via Lake Titicaca.

Family M (with children aged 11 and 13)
“Just returned from an epic 99-day trip around South America. A definite highlight was the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia – just stunning.” 

6. Kyrgyzstan

More than 80 mountain ranges give this landlocked Central Asian republic a deeply rugged feel and a sense of total disconnect from the modern world. This sense is heightened by meeting nomadic herders and eagle hunters in remote locations such as Song Kol Lake, going horse-riding (you can even ride out to Song Kol over two or three days), and staying in a yurt.

Chapman Family (with children aged 16, 20 & 22)
(Our holiday included Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan). In Kyrgyzstan, we faced a poorer country and in the area we went, more mountainous. Again very friendly and much less English spoken anywhere – Russian was very useful. We trekked in the mountains which was hard work for the oldest member (me) as we climbed to 3,500m but well worth it. We had a great experience with mountain shepherds eating bread and sardines with black tea mixed with blackcurrant jam, high in the mountains in a smokey hut (9 of us crammed in) but a great feeling of common humanity. The walk ended up by a lake where we could swim and relax. The final stay was up in the Tien Shan mountains by SongKul Lake. We stayed in a yurt under piles of blankets whilst local boys fed the fire – what a memory. 

7. São Tomé and Principe

Part of a volcano chain, this African island nation near the equator stands out for its combination of impressive rock and coral formations, rainforests and beaches, making it a nature lovers’ paradise and a true outdoor playground for families who love the likes of swimming, snorkelling or diving, dolphin spotting, and hiking to waterfalls. A former Portuguese colony, there are historic colonial buildings dotted around the island, with former cocoa and coffee plantations to explore.

O’Brien Family with two teenage children
“What an idyllic island. We saw turtles coming onto our hotel beaches to lay their eggs, took boat trips through the mangroves, hiked along the coastline and had a go at surfing. Perfect for a short tropical trip.”

8. Pakistan

Sitting at the confluence of three of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges (the Himalayas, Karakorum and Hindu Kush), it’s no surprise that Pakistan’s scenery is utterly breathtaking. Lofty snow-capped peaks soar above terraced orchards and pretty stone villages, a carpet of orange apricots drying across the roofs. This is trekkers paradise but further south your days will be spent exploring ornate palaces, imposing mosques and thriving, colourful markets.

Liddy, Stubborn Mule Travel
“I first went to Pakistan decades ago and fell in love with the country, choosing to return many times as I led groups along the Silk Road from China. It is truly one of the most extraordinarily beautiful places I’ve even been; the jagged lofty peaks of the Karakorum soaring above the river valleys where traditional stone houses shine orange with the carpet of drying apricots on the roofs.”

9. Zambia

Often combined with a stay in a Lake Malawi ‘beach resort’, Zambia brings together some of the world’s top game reserves (and some of the best guiding in Africa) – full of elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, leopards and more – and the mighty Victoria Falls. Dubbed the adventure capital of Africa, the latter offers a full range of activities including micro-lighting, bungee-jumping, zip-lining, and white-water rafting. Also, consider combining Zambia with either Botswana or Zimbabwe.

Dianne, Stubborn Mule Travel
“Our thatched chalet overlooking the Zambezi was one of the most memorable places we’ve ever stayed. We fell asleep listening to the honking hippos below… bliss. Sunset river cruising, a helicopter flight over the Falls, and the safari drives were sensational.”

10. Georgia

Located where Europe and Asia meet, this one-time former Soviet republic combines wild landscapes, charming Caucasus mountain villages and Black Sea beaches. Brilliant with older kids, it offer activities including mountain-biking, horse-riding, white-water rafting and wildlife spotting (the likes of Eurasian lynx, chamois, brown bear and eagles) in national parks. Another must is the spellbinding cave town of Vardzia.

Dubey family (with child aged 12)
“We really enjoyed our trip to Georgia with its fascinating history, both ancient and modern. The people were really friendly, the mountains amazing and the food delicious. We enjoyed time in Tbilisi, the cave cities and hiking. Gabby, our guide, was really great – she was knowledgeable and interesting and thought of everything. In Tbilisi, the food tour was excellent and we booked some time in one of the sulphur baths which was a fun experience.”

11. El Salvador

The smallest country in Central America punches above its weight with its towering live volcanoes, crater lakes and uncrowded Mayan ruins. Trekking is popular here, amongst the green lagoons, coffee plantations and cloud forest. Explore indigo workshops and the vibrant art scene of colonial Suchitoto and enjoy amazing wildlife encounters with turtles, toucans, ocelots and spider monkeys.

Family F, joined their daughter who was volunteering 
“Puerto Barillas was beautiful.  The kayaking here was amazing with a backdrop of volcanoes dropping spectacularly down to the sea (El Salvador has 170 volcanoes!) and the turtle encounter here was incredible”

12. Ethiopia

No fewer than the eight UNESCO World Heritage sites make this mountainous country in the Horn of Africa a fascinating place to visit, but the plant and animal life is spectacular too – it includes Ethiopian wolves (red jackals), gelada baboons and Walia ibex. Other highlights are the rock-hewn churches, the island monasteries in Lake Tana and Gondar’s fairytale-like castles and palaces.

Harrison Family with children aged 6, 8, & 10 
“We had a wonderful trip and went south to the coffee farms at Yirga Alem, which we could not recommend more. We met some amazing people along the way including a real character of a guide in the coffee region whom our children bonded with instantly.”

13. Armenia

The charming and compact gem of the Caucasus, Armenia offers families a delightful mix of culture, history and scenic natural wonders. View the legendary biblical site of Mt Ararat from the capital Yerevan then embark on a week-long journey around the country. Hike through pristine forests to waterfalls, caves and alpine lakes. Kayak and SUP in peace, far removed from the crowded Alps. Visit UNESCO monasteries and pagan temples and try your hand at cross-stone carving and pottery in traditional, ancient villages. Wonder at the towering ‘Symphony of Stones’ and enjoy some zip-wire action at the aptly named ‘Yell Extreme Park’!!!

Armenia in-country Partners
“We are known as one of the most hospitable countries in the world – as well as one of the safest! Rich in culture, history and natural sights and an appealing affordable option for families”

14. Guyana

Sixty percent of this small, mainly English-speaking country in north-east South America is primary rainforest (a part of the Amazon), giving it a wilderness feel. It’s not the easiest place to travel around but will reward you with the likes of the Kaieteur Falls and Iwokrama Canopy Walkway. And with the added bonus that only a tiny handful of travellers make it here, so you will feel like you have the place entirely to yourselves!

Claire, Stubborn Mule Travel
“This really is South America off the beaten track. Enjoy trekking completely alone in the (95% primary) rainforest and savannahs searching for giant river otters and anteaters. And it is English-speaking!”

15. Chile

Jaw-dropping wilderness and remote landscapes make this hiking heaven – from the aquamarine lagoons, geysers and salt flats of the Atacama Desert in the north to the dramatic Patagonian mountains and glaciers of Torres del Paine in the south. Raft beneath snow-capped volcanoes in the Lake District, view the Moai statues of Easter Island, cruise amongst penguins and whales and horse-ride through Maipo Valley vineyards. Check out our Chile Family Holidays Top 10 blog for more inspiration and our Argentina & Chile sample itinerary.

Helene, Stubborn Mule Travel
“Torres del Paine. The absolute jewel in South America’s crown. Yes, I loved the Atacama and Easter Island. And tobogganing down a live volcano in the Lake District.  And yes I loved eating lots of ceviche in Valparaiso (well, maybe not the sea urchins…). But it was tackling the W Walk in Patagonia that really brought home what a wild and wonderful wilderness this is. I could go on….but I would rather go back!

16. St Lucia

This lush Caribbean island is about more than its (wonderful) beach and pool life – fun abounds in the form of hikes in the UNESCO-listed Piton Mountains, zip-wiring through the rainforest, and soaking in volcanic mud baths. The snorkelling and diving is spellbinding, and there are boat trips in search of dolphins and whales and even a replica pirate schooner to try out.

Claire, Stubborn Mule Travel
“SO much more than a cruise ship stop….. swim between the pitons (or climb them if you’re feeling energetic) and end the day with a homemade chocolate bar from a cacao pod you’ve picked yourself!”

18. Nicaragua

A microcosm of Central America, this little-visited country offers unforgettable experiences – sandboard down Cerro Negro volcano, dive in thermally heated Apoyo Lagoon and experience the explosive Masaya Lava Night Tour. Spot sloths in the rainforest canopy, wander colourful artisan markets in colonial Leon and Granada and tour coffee and cacao plantations on Ometepe Island. End on Pacific or Caribbean beaches for snorkelling, surfing and sea turtles.

Hersom Family, with child aged 13
“Nicaragua is gorgeous and not difficult to navigate AS LONG AS you travel with your AWESOME local travel partners. The team was AMAZING. Little Corn Island is possibly one of the most gorgeous dive locations we’ve ever been to! Postcard pretty.”

17. Ghana

On the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, Ghana blends Atlantic beaches with UNESCO-listed forts and national parks full of elephants, lions, antelope, baboons and more. It may not quite rival the great wildlife reserves of East and Southern Africa, but here you can combine safari with completely unique cultural experiences. Design and stamp your own distinctive kente cloth, make hand-made glass beads and buy produce in the market to cook your own West African feast.

Claire, Stubborn Mule Travel
“If you love Africa, Ghana is absolutely a must-visit destination. Not just for the primary rainforest and amazing wildlife of Mole National Park but for its rich mix of cultures and history. Plus one of the biggest markets in West Africa.”

19. Rwanda

You may be familiar with the gorilla trekking in Rwanda (minimum age of 15), but this landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley also has chimps and monkeys to spot, great bird-watching, nature hikes and even water sports such as kayaking and paddle-boarding on Lake Kivu. Meanwhile, Akagera National Park is a Big Five destination, and there are also river cruises to see crocs and hippos.

Sinead, Stubborn Mule Travel
“Rwanda is the place to go for stunning landscapes, warm people, and the unforgettable experience of seeing gorillas in their natural home.”

20. Bhutan

Walking and culture come together beautifully in this Buddhist kingdom known as the Happiest Country in the World. Trek between hilltop temples and fortress monasteries known as dzongs, over high passes, through rice terraces, dwarf bamboo forests and glacial valleys. Prayer flags and spectacular Himalayan views surround. Visit the ancient Tiger’s Nest Monastery and barter for Thangka paintings in the capital, Thimpu.

Liddy, Stubborn Mule Travel
“I had no idea what to expect from Bhutan but from the moment I was greeted by a delightful guide, impeccably suited in traditional dress, I knew that I was somewhere special. This really feels like a hidden mountain kingdom; yes of course there are plenty of nods to modernity, but this is still a deeply traditional place of colourful temples, with the Himalayas providing a dramatic background.”

Get in touch 

This is not an exhaustive list! If you fancy somewhere not listed here, it’s always worth giving us a call to see if we can assist. Ring us on 01728 752751 or use our contact form. We’d be delighted to hear from you.